Dual diagnosis can be a situation whereby two independent disorders exist, and most typically denotes a co-occurring substance abuse and mental health disorder. A dual diagnosis may help a person that might not have been capable of being helped before, put an end to substance abuse because they can be accurately diagnosed and helped. Their mental health disorder could have been misdiagnosed, not diagnosed at all, or mistreated that may have triggered and resulted in their drug abuse problems. Establishing the truth that someone is in fact a dual diagnosis client not just helps establish an effective treatment plan for them, but will also help clients better know what caused their substance abuse and the way to prevent it down the road. Addressing dual diagnosis is often a more extensive process than a typical drug rehab program, and individuals with a dual diagnosis might be required to participate in a substantial aftercare program that might include appropriate medical support as well as continued rehab services. Being diagnosed with co-occurring disorders doesn't signify the person must be medicated through out their lives either, and in reality many individuals with a dual diagnosis experience more effective results when treated holistically and when alternative therapy is employed.